homoarginine

Homoarginine is a nonproteinogenic alpha-amino acid structurally similar to arginine, differing by an additional methylene group. The naturally occurring enantiomer is L-homoarginine. It acts as a substrate for nitric oxide synthase, increasing nitric oxide (NO) availability and improving endothelial function. Homoarginine also inhibits arginase, leading to increased intracellular arginine and further NO production. It has been studied primarily in the context of cardiovascular health, where low circulating levels are associated with increased risk of cardiovascular events and mortality. Experimental studies suggest that homoarginine supplementation may have protective effects against heart failure, stroke, atherosclerosis, and diabetic nephropathy by mechanisms including modulation of T-cell function and inhibition of alkaline phosphatases[1][2][3][4][5][6]. Currently, it is not approved as a pharmaceutical drug but is used experimentally in research settings.

Other names

L-homoarginineHomo-L-arginineN6-(Aminoiminomethyl)-L-lysineN6-amidino-L-LysineN-6-amidino-L-LysineN 6-amidino-L-LysineN6-amidino-LysineN-6-amidino-LysineN 6-amidino-Lysine